Cyclone Mick crossing Fiji's main island

Tropical cyclone Mick has strengthened some and has adjusted course slightly as well. The storm headded for a direct impact on Fiji's main island of Viti Levu. Reports indicate that landfall occurred early Monday morning local time.

Cyclone Mick now predicted to hit Fiji’s main island of Viti Levu (Radio New Zealand)

Weather forecasters are predicting that Fiji will be hit during Monday night by a tropical cyclone that has been named Mick.

The cyclone is currently about 250 kilometres northwest of Nadi and has been classified as category one.

It has changed course slightly and is now said to be heading directly for the main island of Viti Levu.

But the whole country has been put under a gale warning.

Close to it’s centre, Mick is estimated to have average winds of up to 75 kilometres an hour with gusts up to 125 kilometres an hour.

The storm was expected to hit around 3 am Monday morning local time. Heavy rains began coming in around midnight. Flooding in low lying areas and some street flooding is already occurring. Authorities are warning people not to cross flooded roads. Tropical cyclone gale warnings are in effect for the entire country as the storm approaches the islands.

Cyclone Mick moves towards Fiji (Fiji Village)

Situation report on the weather currently being experienced, some roads in Rakiraki are under flood waters and people are being advised not to cross these roads.

Rakiraki Police have confirmed that the Rewasa and Korotale roads are under 3 feet of water and is closed to all traffic.

People in Rakiraki are also experiencing heavy rain and strong winds.According to Ba Police the strong winds and heavy downpour started at around 3 this morning and is continuing.

Meanwhile, strong winds and heavy rain continue for most parts of the Northern Division.People in Taveuni are facing strong winds and occasional heavy rainfall from last night.

Taveuni Police Station Special Police Constable, Maria Moapa says the weather is worsening on the Garden Island.

Here in the US we have adopted the phrase "Turn around, don't drown." Never venture into a flooded street. A surprisingle small amount of street flooding can carry a vehicle away and a sudden flash flood could surprise someone resulting in a drowning. The safest action is to never cross a flooded street or swollen stream.